Historical Monuments in Bangalore

Heritage and culture have always flown freely in the veins of Bangalore along with contemporary significance. The historical monuments of Bangalore unfold a whole new world of historical, cultural, architectural, political, traditional and religious legacy and past of Karnataka. The forts and palaces manifest professionally competent town planning and the wonderful architecture at the time of some of the earliest dynasties in India. Sometimes the edifices have been created to commemorate a person or important event or designed as artistic objects to improve the appearance of a city or location. They have become iconic emblems of modern Bangalore in all their glory.

The cultural heritage of Bangalore consists of contributions and influences of successive dynasties that ruled it such as the Kadambas, Hoysalas, Chalukyas and the Vijaynagar Empire. The Mughals and the British reigned in Bangalore as well. Rudiments of the people, the races and the religions were altered and assimilated as per conveniences and bear mark on the beautiful monuments that have stood the test of time.

The capital of Karnataka, Bangalore has a unique cultural identity with elements of both Hinduism and Islam and has several notable monuments including the Vidhan Soudha and Tipu's Palace. The city also has the magnificent Bangalore Palace in a blend of Gothic and Tudor architecture. The famous monuments always merit a visit, because they are the speaking stones of Bangalore's historical details.

Historical monuments of Bangalore speaking of its heritage include--

Vidhan Soudha

Vidhan Soudha's claim to fame is that it is the largest Secretariat in India and houses the State Legislature. The building is a charming amalgam of the neo-Dravidian, British, Indio-Islamic and contemporary architecture bears testimony to the secularism that prevails in India.

The building was constructed by dexterous craftsmen under the supervision of the then then Chief Engineer, late B.R.Manickam of the Public Works Department. To preserve the aesthetic and ergonomic appeal of the building, Vidhana Soudha is composed of a striking blend of Bangalore granite, Magadi pink and Turuvekere black stones.

Bangalore Palace

The 120-year-old palace is situated in the heart of Bangalore amidst acres of rambling lawns and beautifully tended blooming sprawling gardens. The palace is composed of wood and boasts of some exquisitely intricate sculpting and vibrant paintings. This fairy tale castle has rampart crenellated towers with Gothic windows complete with bulwarks and turrets.

The construction of this marvelous edifice glowing in majestic splendor incurred expenditure just over Rs. 1 lakh. The wonderfully appealing door panel and the ornate floral motifs, cornices and colorful paintings on the ceiling mesmerizes tourists.

Today Bangalore Palace juxtaposed between Jayamahal and Sadashivanagar in Bangalore houses some of the country's best exhibitions, concerts, musical soirees and cultural events.

Although the exquisite palace strategically sited in Palace Guttahalli attracts multitude of tourists, entry is restricted. Tourists have to acquire special permission to enter the palace premises and trespassers are severely prosecuted.

Tipu's Palace

The palace primarily served the purpose of Tipu Sultan's summer retreat who christened it Tashk-e-Jannat connoting the envy of heaven. The palace with its quaint wooden finish, elaborate arches and minarets and colorful paintings on the walls and ceilings complete the breathtaking interiors that mesmerize visitors.

The relics of Tipu's Fort are located amidst the chaotic hustle and bustle of the City Market whose existence is attributed to the initiative of Chikkadeva Raya. The building was later taken down and renovated and put together by Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan. The interior of the fort houses the vestiges of the majestic Tipu's Palace, bearing traces of the vicissitudes of Tipu Sultan's reign.

Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall

Lord Nathaniel Curzon has a significant contribution to the existence of Shri Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall. The erstwhile Viceroy of India is credited as the mastermind behind Kolkata's treasure, the imperial Victoria Memorial and Bangalore's magnum opus, the Shri Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall. Lord Curzon impressed with Shri Seshadri Iyer's dedication and service to the British Raj wrote to the then British Resident, Sir Donald Robertson. It was then agreed upon to honor the erstwhile diwans's relentless services by building a posthumous Memorial Hall in his name. The building, conveniently sited in one of Bangalore's most enchanting and popular parks amidst lush greenery is thereby almost always swarming with tourists and visitors.

Attara Kacheri

Attara Kacheri is strategically sited at a distance of 2 km from Bangalore's popular MG Road is situated amidst the lush greenery of Cubbon Park and opposite Vidhana Soudha. The building's vibrant red hues beautifully complement the pristine whiteness of Vidhana Soudha.

Attara Kacheri is an aesthetically appealing and elegant two-storied building replete with Corinthian columns. The building came in to being in the year 1864 and housed the
Public Offices from 1868 until 1956. Eventually Attara Kacheri became the state's high Court while the Public Offices were relocated to Vidhana Soudha. The building pays a tribute to the erstwhile Commissioner of Mysore, Sir Mark Cubbon and houses his portraits as well as commemorative epitaphs sculpted by Baron Marochetti.

Chunchi Falls

The waterfall whose cascading ripples gleam like flowing quicksilver is situated in a beautiful rocky valley and surrounded by dense, green forests. With the Kanakapura town located in its vicinity, Chunchi Falls is a popular picnic spots with a tranquil milieu that records an average footfall of 70 on weekends. Visitors can halt at the nearby small-scale hotels in the Kanakpura town.
The panoramic rhapsodies of the gurgling Chunchi Falls are a sight to behold. Although a small waterfall, the beauty of its gushing cascades in an idyllic green setting mesmerizes tourists. Chunchi Falls is thus a worthwhile stopover for tourists on their way to Sangama or Mekedatu.
It is best to visit this paradise in early winter. The good roads and abundant transport facilities are also conducive for the potential development of Chunchi Falls as a popular tourist spot.